NFL Players Are Backing Cannabis-Based Therapies

A growing number of former and current NFL players are turning to cannabidiol, or CBD, a non-psychoactive cannabis extract that scientists have proven to stimulate neural activity, improves physical recovery, reduces anxiety and depression, and may counteract the effects of concussions.

One of the players is former Pro Bowl quarterback Jake Plummer from the Arizona Cardinals and Arizona State University. Plummer and other players are joining forces with the nonprofit Realm of Caring in a public crusade to raise money and awareness for research. “When the Bright Lights Fade” is a video campaign created by Realm of Caring and in partnership with CW Botanicals, a pioneer in cannabis-based therapies.

“The benefits of this product represent a true game-changer for anyone playing high-level contact sports,” said Plummer. “I have experienced it first-hand, and believe without a doubt that with a fully-funded research effort we can find answers and successfully treat the long-term effects of brain injury in sports.”

CW Botanicals, a pharmaceutical company focusing on cannabis-based treatments, originally developed Charlotte’s Web (an oil comprising of CBD) as a natural progenitor for overall brain health. It contains no more THC (the psychoactive substance in marijuana that causes a “high”) than the typical hemp seed oil from grocery stores. Their oil delivers precise levels of CBD that interacts with the brain’s neuroreceptors and the endocannabinoid system to regulate processes such as appetite, pain sensation, mood, and memory.

The Realm of Caring and CW Botanicals partner with research institutes, universities, and sports organizations worldwide to advance the science and awareness of cannabis-based therapies.

“Systematic data collection is essential for evaluating the real benefit and safety of cannabinoid medicines, and Realm of Caring’s research efforts will provide significant advances in our knowledge and understanding.” said Ryan Vandrey, Ph.D., Associate Professor at the Johns Hopkins University Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit.